SPRINGFIELD – Former Missouri State men’s soccer player Ben Griffiths is the latest Bear to sign a professional contract. Griffiths, who played at MSU under Coach Jon Leamy from 2009-2012, will be joining UMF Tindastóll in Iceland this week.

Griffiths found out about the signing on Tuesday, will be arriving in Sauðárkrókur on Thursday, and expects to be playing in Saturday’s game.

“That’s the whole reason why I came over to America,” said Griffiths who moved to the United States in 2009 after playing for Colchester United in his home nation of England.

Griffiths finished his Missouri State career as an anchor to a strong backline. The defender was named captain his senior season and was recognized with a selection to the all-MVC honorable mention squad.

“It’s a great experience for Ben to continue playing,” said Leamy. “He’s a great wide player, either at wide back or wide mid, and really intelligent. He understood what we were doing and handled himself in the right way. Everyone in our program is extremely proud of him and excited for the opportunity he’s earned for himself.”

After graduation, Griffiths decided to focus on soccer full time. He has been playing soccer for the Professional Development League’s Springfield Demize. Griffiths was tied for the team lead with 11 matches played and was one of only three field players to log over 800 minutes on the season.

UMF Tindastóll, a member of Iceland’s second tier league 1. deild karla, is currently in its transfer window in the middle of the season and able to add players to its roster.

“I’ve never been (to Iceland), but I heard it is a very beautiful place,” said Griffiths. “It is a fantastic opportunity and I am really appreciative. I am just going to work hard to continue getting better.”